Mitchell Starc, a veteran Australian cricketer, is set to make waves in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as he gears up to play for the Delhi Capitals in 2025. The left-arm pacer, celebrated for his fearsome bowling skills and ability to swing the ball at high speeds, has always been a key asset in both international and franchise cricket. Starc has a deep-rooted history in the IPL, having made his debut in 2014 for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. After a hiatus focused on international commitments, he returned to the tournament in 2024 with the Kolkata Knight Riders, where he made headlines as the most expensive player ever bought in the history of the IPL.
Signed for a whopping AU$4.43 million (24.75 crore), expectations were high for Starc during his tenure with the Knight Riders. Unfortunately, despite showing flashes of brilliance—including a standout performance in the semi-finals and finals that helped the Knight Riders clinch their third IPL title—his overall performance was a mixed bag. Starc ended the season with a staggering economy rate of 10.61 runs per over, which raised questions about his ability to cope with the conditions of subcontinental pitches. The pressures of being the highest-paid player in the tournament put a target on his back, as described by former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, who noted that Starc, along with his international counterparts, felt the intense scrutiny that comes with such a label.
As the 2025 IPL season approaches, Starc finds himself donning a different jersey, having been signed by the Delhi Capitals for INR 11.25 Crores (approximately $2.15 million). This move comes after he was not retained by Kolkata, resulting in a $2.28 million pay cut following his inability to maintain consistent performance throughout the previous season. Nevertheless, Starc’s reputation as a top-tier bowler remains intact, and he is eager to prove himself once more.
Starc’s practice sessions with the Delhi Capitals have generated significant buzz among fans and analysts alike, as excitement builds around his potential impact on the team. He has appeared fresh and dangerous during training, showcasing the accuracy and skill that have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. With the IPL’s 2025 season kicking off on March 22, fans across the globe are hopeful that Starc will reclaim his position as one of the league’s standout bowlers.
In reflecting on his transition to the Delhi Capitals, Starc expressed a sense of renewed focus and determination. He aims to capitalize on his experiences from the 2024 season, approaching this new chapter with a revitalized spirit. The upcoming match against his former team, the Kolkata Knight Riders, scheduled for April 29, promises to be a highlight as both Starc and the Capitals will have much to prove.
The 18th edition of the IPL is set to be competitive, featuring a staggering 15 Australians among the squads, making for exciting matchups. This year, the format remains the same, with each franchise scheduled to play 14 group stage matches, culminating in a four-game finals series to determine the champion.
Starc is among a plethora of talent in the Delhi Capitals' roster, which includes notable players like KL Rahul and Axar Patel, who will be looking to establish a formidable team dynamic and take the title. The strategic restructuring of the team will be crucial, as franchises aim for optimal performance in this highly competitive league.
Ultimately, Starc’s return to the IPL as a player for the Delhi Capitals offers a narrative of redemption and resilience. As he sets out to reclaim his status and contribute significantly to his new team, cricket enthusiasts will be watching closely to see if he can truly redefine his legacy in the tournament.
With the opening day just around the corner, anticipation builds for not just Starc’s performance, but for the unfolding drama of the IPL 2025 season as franchises clash head-to-head, vying for cricket’s coveted trophy.
